Barefoot and pregnant?

When the Lord saw that Leah was hated, he opened her womb, but Rachel was barren. And Leah conceived and bore a son, and she called his name Reuben, for she said, “Because the Lord has looked upon my affliction; for now my husband will love me.” She conceived again and bore a son, and said, “Because the Lord has heard that I am hated, he has given me this son also.” And she called his name Simeon. Again she conceived and bore a son, and said, “Now this time my husband will be attached to me, because I have borne him three sons.” Therefore his name was called Levi. And she conceived again and bore a son, and said, “This time I will praise the Lord.” Therefore she called his name Judah. Then she ceased bearing. (Genesis 29:31–35)

Back in the day, the status symbol for a wife was her ability to bear children. While this could anger some women these days, or make them at least scratch their heads, it was not considered demeaning in Bible days to be ‘barefoot and pregnant’ as it is now.

A quick internet search says today’s woman value intangibles like self-determination and independence, professional and educational success, being self-made, having a toned body and good health, privacy, world travel, and unique life experiences. Add the tangible obvious: designer goods, shopping at luxury stores, having a financial standing, and exceptional personal accomplishments. 

While some would applaud that “we have come a long way” others might see the consequences of this large shift in priorities and wonder if it is worth it. How has it affected marriages? And children in such marriages? Think of how ‘self actualization’ is described in this verse:

All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned—every one—to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. (Isaiah 53:6)

Thinking about my own priorities, what is the difference between ‘my own way’ and doing things God’s way? Is it only about trying to please my husband by giving him a bunch of kids? Many women have made an impact in this world by serving the Lord in many ways other than childbearing. Even the NT has examples, plus modern day women in the mission field, Christian education, and in local churches. 

The difference is in what they are doing (serving the Lord) but mostly in why they are doing it. Their accomplishments are not about ‘self’ but about glorifying God. It might be in the home, or at work, or in a wide range of activities, but a heart set to honor Him makes a difference. I want to make a difference, no matter where else He might lead me, and do what I do because of His leading.

Jesus, I think of my Granny’s words as I write this: “Too old too soon, too late smart.” May You restore the years the locust has eaten and make use of whatever time is left. Women who love You and serve You with their whole heart are brave and powerful — and becoming far too rare.